Which change in the spine would be frequently observed in patients who are obese

Which change in the spine would be frequently observed in patients who are obese

The Correct Answer and Explanation is:

In patients who are obese, one of the most common changes observed in the spine is increased spinal curvature. Specifically, lumbar lordosis, the inward curvature of the lower back, tends to increase. This condition is often referred to as “hyperlordosis” or “swayback”. The additional weight from obesity places excessive pressure on the lumbar spine, which can cause the vertebrae to shift, leading to the exaggerated curve.

Here’s why this occurs:

1. Increased Load on the Spine: Obesity, especially central obesity (fat accumulation around the abdomen), increases the load on the spine. The extra weight forces the lumbar region to curve more than usual to support the body’s weight, leading to an abnormal postural alignment.
2. Altered Center of Mass: Obesity shifts the center of mass forward. To counterbalance this shift, the lower back undergoes compensatory changes, such as increased curvature. This adjustment helps maintain balance but puts additional strain on spinal muscles and ligaments.
3. Muscle Imbalance: Excess weight can weaken certain muscles, particularly in the core and lower back, while overloading others. Weakened muscles, particularly in the abdominal and hip flexor regions, may no longer provide adequate support for the spine. This leads to postural imbalances that exacerbate the curvature.
4. Degenerative Changes: Over time, the increased stress on the spine can lead to degenerative changes, such as osteoarthritis or disk degeneration, in the vertebrae and intervertebral discs. These changes can further worsen the posture and increase spinal curvature.

In addition to hyperlordosis, spondylolisthesis (where one vertebra slips over another) and herniated discs may also be more common in obese individuals due to the additional strain on the spine and its supporting structures.

Managing obesity and maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce the strain on the spine and improve overall spinal health.